In this episode of the Wellness Diaries podcast, I chat with Dr. Jena Gatses, a performance coach and physical therapist with a notable background, including being the first female head coach for NASCAR.
She discusses the importance of proper breathing techniques and their influence on health and exercise performance. Dr. Gatses shares insights on the psychological aspects of training, the impact of modern technology on stress levels, and the power of mindset in healing.
A remarkable story of helping a paralyzed patient regain leg function through various therapies is recounted, emphasizing neuroplasticity and the mind-body connection. The episode also touches on self-awareness, the power of positivity, and the significance of personal growth and resilience.
TIME STAMPS
Dr. Jenna Gatses's Background (00:00:02) Introduction to Dr. Jena Gatses background and expertise in performance coaching and physical therapy.
Meeting at CrossFit Gym (00:01:11) Ashleigh and Dr. Jena Gatses reminisce about how they met and their shared experiences at a CrossFit gym.
Dr. Gatses's Experience in Grad School (00:02:53) Dr. Jena Gatses shares her experiences and challenges during her time in grad school, focusing on her hands-on learning approach and stress relief through CrossFit.
Unique Approach to Bodywork (00:04:46) Discussion about Dr. Gatses unique approach to bodywork and the importance of understanding the body's imbalances and providing clients with tools for self-care.
Impact of Sedentary Lifestyle on the Body (00:08:01) Dr. Gatses explains how a sedentary lifestyle affects the body, particularly focusing on the impact of hip flexors and core control on various types of pain and discomfort.
Importance of Proper Breathing (00:09:25) Dr. Gatses discusses the significance of correct breathing patterns, the common issues with breathing, and the impact of breathing on stress levels and hormone output.
Breathing Techniques for Exercise (00:15:15) The conversation shifts to the importance of breathing during exercise, with a focus on how proper breathing techniques can make movements feel easier and more efficient.
Breathing and Weightlifting (00:16:58) Importance of correct breathing for weightlifting and the impact on overall health and exercise performance.
Foundational Movements (00:17:45) The significance of mastering foundational movements and isolating different muscle groups in exercise training.
Psychology and Training Approach (00:18:28) Teaching foundational movements, addressing resistance, and tailoring training approach for high-caliber individuals.
Tailoring Training Approach (00:20:45) Tailoring the approach for different individuals based on their unique needs, whether athletes, celebrities, or older clients.
Working with NASCAR (00:23:18) Training and conditioning of NASCAR athletes, including managing demands of the longest pro sports season and controlling variables.
Resilience and Motor Control (00:25:17) Building resilience and motor control through training, leading to extraordinary physical capabilities and injury resilience.
Nervous System and Technology (00:28:23) Impact of technology and modern distractions on the nervous system, stress response, and energy expenditure.
Psychological Impact of Social Media (00:29:03) The psychological impact of social media, victimization, and the importance of taking ownership of one's life.
Recognizing Intrinsic Value (00:33:41) Recognizing intrinsic value, combating external validation, and the significance of self-worth and self-recognition.
Neurofeedback and Brainwaves (00:36:59) Discussion on neurofeedback and the study of brainwaves to change states of being and the impact of sending positive energy.
Catering to Personal Motivations (00:39:31) Importance of understanding individual motivations and tailoring techniques to cater to personal needs for human performance and mental health.
Communication and Psychology (00:41:23) The significance of effective communication and understanding psychology in performance coaching and physical therapy to achieve desired outcomes.
The Power of Mindset (00:46:42) The influence of mindset on the nervous system and the importance of instilling hope and positivity in the healing process.
Impact of Beliefs on Healing (00:48:32) The role of beliefs in the healing process and the effect of mindset on recovery, including the potential impact of surgery and medication.
The power of visualization (00:51:31) Dr. Gatses shares a story of using visualization to help a paralyzed individual regain function in his legs.
Neuroplasticity and neural pathways (00:53:21) Discussion on the brain's ability to create new neural pathways and the impact of visualization on physical recovery.
The importance of breathwork (00:54:51) Dr. Gatses emphasizes the significance of breathwork for resetting the nervous system and improving overall well-being.
Implementing small changes (01:03:21) The importance of taking small steps and building confidence through achievable goals.
Setting boundaries and self-reflection (01:07:04) Dr. Gatses reflects on the importance of setting boundaries and understanding oneself, leading to personal growth and fulfillment.
Trusting Yourself and Personal Growth (01:07:55) Dr. Gatses shares a personal story about trusting herself and personal growth.
Bringing Out the Best in People (01:08:47) The importance of bringing out the best in people and not getting sucked into negativity.
Recognizing Your Power and Love (01:09:07) Emphasizing the power and love inside each individual despite negative influences.
Advice for Younger Self and Life-Changing Lessons (01:09:35) Dr. Gatses discusses advice for her younger self and shares life-changing lessons from her career.
Validation and Impact (01:10:06) Ashley seeks validation and discusses the impact of the podcast on people's lives.
Impact and Importance of Trusting Yourself (01:10:38) Dr. Gatses shares how the podcast impacts people and emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself.
Closing Remarks (01:11:13) Ashleigh expresses gratitude, encourages listeners, and invites them to stick around for the next episode.
DR. JENA IG: https://www.instagram.com/drjenagatses/
JOIN OUR FB COMMUNITY: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821409229816960
FREEBIES & SPECIAL OFFERS
No Brainer Fat Loss Checklist: https://ahubnutrition.myflodesk.com/fatlosschecklist
Special 1:1 Coaching Offer for podcast listeners only: https://www.ahubnutrition.com/coachingapplication
Group Coaching: https://www.ahubnutrition.com/90days
Simple Meal Ideas Freebie: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626c82f91e8046b220253e1b
Join the email list: https://ahubnutrition.myflodesk.com/x8208kqszl
FIND ME ON
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashleighmariehubbard/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahubnutrition/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessdiariespodcast/